Dark-eyed Juncos: A Farewell to Arkansas’ Snowbirds

As spring unfolds across Arkansas, a familiar winter visitor prepares to depart: the Dark-eyed Junco, often called the “snowbird.” In my previous post, “Dark-eyed Juncos: The Snowbirds Have Returned,” I welcomed their seasonal arrival. Now, with March in full swing, it’s time to bid them farewell—a reflective moment for those who have cherished their presence all winter.

A Signature of Arkansas Winters

Dark-eyed Juncos are a familiar sight during the colder months. Their soft gray plumage and white bellies stand out as they flit through underbrush and forage on the ground. As temperatures rise, they feel an instinctual pull north. By mid-April, they will be nesting in coniferous forests, leaving behind the southern landscapes they inhabited for months.

Capturing Their Final Days

With their departure near, I took the chance to capture a few last images of these winter guests. The three photos featured in this post show a Dark-eyed Junco perched on a branch in my yard, framed by earthy browns and the first hints of green. The blend of winter’s muted tones with spring’s emerging hues perfectly captures the seasonal shift—a quiet transition from one chapter to the next.

A Moment of Anticipation

Each photograph, taken this week, carries a sense of anticipation. The junco appears poised, as if sensing the journey ahead. Perhaps the warming air, the softening light, or the tiny buds around it signal the time to leave. Or maybe I’m simply reading into the moment. Either way, the change is clear.

Until We Meet Again

For the next few days, I’ll watch that familiar perch, hoping for one last glimpse of a junco amid the pine needles and fresh greenery. Soon, they’ll be on their way north, but they will return when winter’s chill settles in once more. Until then, I wish them safe travels—may their wings carry them smoothly to their summer homes, and may we meet again when the cold winds blow.